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Sutton Coldfield stabbing

Some were understood to have been working outside a nearby McDonald’s restaurant.

A resident living nearby said “It’s really frightening that it happened in such a busy area.”

The scene was cordoned off after the attack, and police forensic officers were gathering evidence.

Det Insp Ian Ingram, of West Midlands Police's public protection unit, said: “We have launched a major investigation and are working hard to understand the circumstances that led up to the assault.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area yesterday afternoon and who may have seen something to come forward and speak to my officers."

Chief Inspector Julian Harper said on Friday: “I would certainly like to give thanks to individuals who got involved and members of the public who dived into a volatile situation with a complete disregard for their own safety.

“I know it was initially one male that intervened and then four younger males were alerted to what happened and they intervened as well and prevented any further assault on the lady and detained the suspect until the officers arrived.

“We don’t know (whether disarmed the suspect) that detail at the moment.

“It is all part of our inquiry.”

West Midlands Police Chief Constable Dave Thompson took to Twitter and said: “Incredible actions by members of the public.

“Everyone’s thoughts are with the victim and child.”

Chf Insp Harper added: “They are, we believe, known to each other so this is a domestic-related situation.

“As such, we should say the public shouldn’t be alarmed as we have the only person believed to be this situation.

“Obviously if the lady or the baby should die then it does have the potential to be a murder inquiry.

“Obviously our wishes are with her and we hope that she does recover.”

He added: “This happened in a busy area but I would reassure the community that a man has been arrested and we are working hard to understand the circumstances that led up to the assault.”

Witnesses should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111.

Are you one of the men who went to help the victim? Email our newsdesk at newsdesk@birminghammail.co.uk or call 0121 234 5536